Colour of waters breaking: what to look for

Membranes can release fluid as one noticeable gush or a persistent damp trickle. Because urine and normal discharge can look similar, report a suspected leak rather than relying on colour alone.

Clear or straw-coloured fluid fits the usual appearance of amniotic fluid, and a slight pink streak can come from small amounts of blood around labour. Green or brown fluid can occur when meconium, the baby's first stool, is present; the maternity team may recommend additional fetal monitoring.

Bright red blood or bleeding that continues is a warning sign rather than an expected shade of the waters. Cloudy, unusually smelly fluid together with fever, chills or abdominal tenderness raises concern about infection. A clinical check may be needed to confirm that the membranes have opened.

Wear a fresh maternity or sanitary pad so you can see ongoing leakage. Record the time, colour and smell, then telephone your maternity triage service. Mention how many weeks pregnant you are, any contractions, the baby's usual and current movement, and symptoms such as bleeding, temperature or constant pain.

Avoid tampons, penetrative sex and putting fingers into the vagina while awaiting advice, as these can introduce bacteria after the membranes rupture. Keep the pad if staff ask to inspect it, and travel for assessment as directed. A leak before term requires timely evaluation even without discomfort.

Call the maternity unit urgently if the liquid is green, brown, foul-smelling or mixed with fresh blood; if fetal movements decrease or change; or if you develop fever, worsening abdominal pain or feel acutely unwell. These signs alter the type and speed of assessment needed.

Use emergency services for severe bleeding, collapse, an urge to push with birth appearing close, or an umbilical cord visible or felt at the vaginal opening. If a cord is present, avoid touching or pushing it back and follow the emergency call handler's positioning instructions.

Ask what examination will identify amniotic fluid, how the baby's heartbeat and movements will be checked, and whether signs of infection are present. You may also want to know how the fluid colour affects monitoring, labour plans and the timing of your next review.